Calm, productive, and well-suited for suburban backyards. Here’s how to choose your first flock wisely.
Not all chickens are created equal. Some breeds are calm and affectionate. Others are noisy, flighty, or require more space than beginners expect.
In this guide, we'll break down the most beginner-friendly breeds — including temperament, egg production, climate tolerance, and potential downsides — so you can start confidently.
Buff Orpington
If you want calm personalities, reliable egg production, and cold-weather hardiness, Buff Orpingtons are the most well-rounded first-flock choice.
Known as the “golden retriever of chickens,” Buff Orpingtons are gentle, fluffy, and extremely beginner-friendly.
If you want a calm suburban flock that feels more like pets than livestock, this is your safest first choice.
A classic American backyard breed known for reliability and personality.
Ideal for beginners who want reliable egg production without high-maintenance behavior.
Bred specifically for egg production, ISA Browns are productivity machines.
If egg production is your primary goal, ISA Browns are unmatched — but understand the tradeoff in longevity.
Quiet, gentle, and famously productive — a strong alternative to Orpingtons.
A fantastic all-around choice if you want quiet productivity.
A balanced starter flock might include:
This gives you steady egg production, calm personalities, and some personality diversity.
Even the best breed will struggle in an undersized coop. Make sure your housing matches your flock size.
See Best Coop Kits for 4 Hens